Is Feeld Worth It? Navigating This Kink-Friendly Dating App in 2023

Reading time: 12 minutes

Table of Contents

• Introduction to Feeld: Beyond Mainstream Dating
• What is Feeld? Understanding the Platform
• The Feeld User Experience
• Feeld Pricing: Free vs. Premium Options
• How Feeld’s Growth Impacts the Experience
• Alternatives to Feeld
• Success Stories and User Experiences
• Your Personal Decision Guide
• Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction to Feeld: Beyond Mainstream Dating

In the ever-expanding universe of dating apps, Feeld occupies a unique position. Originally launched in 2014 as “3nder” (a play on Tinder focused on threesomes), Feeld has evolved into a platform that champions sexual exploration, ethical non-monogamy, and diverse relationship structures. But as with any dating platform experiencing significant growth, questions arise: Has Feeld maintained its original appeal? Is it still worth your time and potentially your money in 2023?

The dating app landscape is increasingly segmented, with platforms catering to specific preferences, orientations, and relationship styles. While apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge dominate the mainstream market, Feeld has carved out its niche by creating a space where sexual openness isn’t just tolerated but celebrated.

As someone who’s spent years researching and writing about digital dating dynamics, I’ve observed Feeld’s evolution with particular interest. The platform’s expansion presents both opportunities and challenges—more users means more potential connections, but it can also dilute the focused community that early adopters valued.

This exploration goes beyond simple pros and cons. We’ll examine how Feeld’s growth has shaped its community, interface, and overall value proposition for different users. Whether you’re curious about ethical non-monogamy, looking to explore kink, or simply seeking a more open-minded dating environment, let’s determine if Feeld deserves a place on your phone in 2023.

What is Feeld? Understanding the Platform

Origins and Evolution

Feeld began its journey as 3nder, an app specifically designed to help couples find a third partner. After a legal challenge from Tinder over the name similarity, the platform rebranded as Feeld in 2016 and expanded its vision beyond just facilitating threesomes.

Today, Feeld positions itself as a dating platform for the sexually curious and open-minded. The app welcomes individuals and couples of all sexual orientations and gender identities, putting it at the forefront of inclusive dating technology. Unlike many mainstream apps that default to heteronormative matching, Feeld was built from the ground up to accommodate diverse relationship structures and sexual interests.

“We believe in an inclusive space where people can explore relationships beyond societal norms,” explains Feeld’s founder Dimo Trifonov. This philosophy permeates every aspect of the platform, from its extensive gender and sexuality options to its unique “desire” tags that help users connect based on shared interests.

Core Features and Differentiators

What truly sets Feeld apart from mainstream dating apps are several key features:

• Expansive identity options: Users can choose from over 20 sexual orientation options and 20+ gender identities, allowing for more authentic self-representation.
• Couple profiles: Partners can link their individual profiles, facilitating transparent group connections.
• Desires: Users can add specific interests and kinks to their profiles, ranging from “cuddling” to more explicit activities.
• Core values: Feeld emphasizes consent, communication, and curiosity as central to its community guidelines.
• Privacy features: Options to hide from Facebook connections and employ discretion enhancers like profile pins.

These features create an environment where users can be forthright about their interests without fear of judgment—something often missing from mainstream dating platforms. As one user, Lana (32), shared: “On other apps, I felt I had to hide parts of myself. On Feeld, I can be upfront about being polyamorous without having to explain myself repeatedly.”

The Feeld User Experience

Interface and Usability

Feeld’s interface strikes a balance between sleek design and functionality. The app employs a minimalist aesthetic with a dark color scheme that feels both sophisticated and discreet. Navigation is intuitive, with the familiar swipe mechanism complemented by detailed filtering options.

Profile creation is more involved than on many mainstream apps, reflecting Feeld’s emphasis on authentic connection. Users are encouraged to fully express their identities, desires, and boundaries. While this requires more initial investment, it typically leads to more meaningful matches.

The app’s performance has improved significantly following recent updates. Earlier versions suffered from occasional bugs and slow loading times, but the current iteration runs smoothly on both iOS and Android devices. That said, some users report that the message interface could be more intuitive, with chat organization becoming unwieldy as conversations accumulate.

Community Composition and Dynamics

Feeld’s user base has grown considerably, particularly in urban areas. Major cities like New York, London, Berlin, and San Francisco boast the most active communities, though smaller metropolitan areas are seeing steady growth.

The demographic makeup varies by location, but tends to skew younger and more progressive. According to internal data shared by Feeld, approximately:

• 60% of users are between 25-35 years old
• Over 40% identify as something other than heterosexual
• Approximately 35% are looking for group experiences
• Around 25% identify as polyamorous or ethically non-monogamous

This diversity creates a rich environment for connection but can also mean that users with specific interests might need to be patient in finding compatible matches, especially outside major urban centers.

Marc (29), who uses Feeld in a mid-sized Midwestern city, notes: “The community here is smaller than what my friends in NYC experience, but it’s growing. What I appreciate is that people are generally more respectful and clear about their intentions than on mainstream apps.”

Feeld Pricing: Free vs. Premium Options

Like most dating apps, Feeld operates on a freemium model. The basic functionalities are available without cost, while premium features require a subscription. Understanding what you get at each tier is essential for determining the app’s value proposition.

The premium “Majestic Membership” offers several additional features that enhance the experience:

• See who has liked your profile
• Add private photos visible only to matches you choose
• Browse incognito
• Share more details about specific desires
• Connect with users outside your immediate location

Is the upgrade worth it? The answer largely depends on your usage patterns and location. In areas with smaller user bases, the ability to see who’s already liked you can significantly streamline the matching process. For those concerned about privacy—particularly important for many exploring alternative relationship styles—the enhanced discretion features may justify the cost.

Compared to premium tiers on mainstream apps like Tinder ($29.99/month) or Bumble ($39.99/month), Feeld’s Majestic Membership offers relatively good value, especially with the annual subscription.

How Feeld’s Growth Impacts the Experience

The Evolution of Community Dynamics

Feeld’s user base has grown significantly in recent years, with the company reporting a 70% increase since 2020. This expansion brings both benefits and challenges that directly impact user experience.

On the positive side, growth means more potential connections. Early users of Feeld often complained about the limited pool of matches, particularly outside major cities. Today, even users in smaller metropolitan areas report a steady stream of new profiles. This diversity enriches the community and increases the chances of finding compatible connections.

However, growth also brings dilution. When Feeld was smaller, it attracted primarily those already familiar with alternative relationship styles and kink communities. These users generally understood community norms around consent, communication, and respect. As the app has grown more mainstream, some long-term users report an influx of people who may be “just curious” or, worse, treating the platform as a hunting ground rather than a community.

Elena (34), a Feeld user since 2017, shares: “When I first joined, almost everyone I matched with understood ethical non-monogamy and kink etiquette. Now I spend more time explaining basics or filtering out people who think the app is just for finding quick threesomes without doing the emotional work.”

Platform Adaptations and Company Response

To their credit, Feeld’s team has implemented several measures to maintain community quality during growth:

• Enhanced onboarding: New users now receive more comprehensive guidance about community expectations.
• Improved reporting tools: The process for flagging inappropriate behavior has been streamlined.
• Community guidelines: Feeld has published detailed expectations around consent and communication.
• Moderation investment: The company has increased its content moderation team by 40% since 2021.

There’s also evidence that Feeld is working to balance growth with community preservation. Unlike many dating apps that prioritize expansion at all costs, Feeld has maintained its focus on serving its core audience while carefully expanding. This approach has helped preserve what makes the platform unique even as it grows.

The company has also responded to user feedback about technical issues that arose during rapid growth, with server upgrades and app optimizations improving reliability. Response times from customer support have improved from an average of 72 hours in 2020 to under 24 hours in 2023, according to company data.

Alternatives to Feeld

While Feeld occupies a unique position in the dating app ecosystem, it’s worth considering alternatives that might better suit your specific needs. Here are several platforms that overlap with Feeld’s target audience:

#Open

#Open was specifically designed for the ethically non-monogamous community. It features detailed relationship structure options and emphasizes consent and communication. The platform is newer and smaller than Feeld, which means fewer potential matches but possibly a more focused community.

Key differentiator: #Open allows for more specific relationship structure designations and searching based on these parameters.

OkCupid

Though a mainstream dating app, OkCupid has embraced inclusivity with extensive options for gender, sexuality, and relationship style. It allows users to indicate interest in non-monogamy and kink, though these aren’t its primary focus.

Key differentiator: OkCupid’s detailed questionnaire and matching algorithm can help find compatible partners based on a wider range of values and interests beyond just relationship style.

FetLife

FetLife is less a dating app and more a social network for the kink community. It focuses on community building, event discovery, and education rather than the swipe-match-chat model of traditional dating apps.

Key differentiator: FetLife provides access to events, groups, and educational resources that dating apps typically don’t offer.

When comparing these alternatives, consider factors like:

• Local user base size for each platform
• Specific features that match your privacy needs
• Interface preferences and user experience
• Community culture and moderation practices
• Cost structure and value of premium features

Many users in ethically non-monogamous communities maintain profiles on multiple platforms, using each for its strengths while mitigating individual limitations.

Success Stories and User Experiences

Beyond features and pricing, the true measure of any dating app is whether it facilitates meaningful connections. User experiences with Feeld vary widely, but patterns emerge that can help you gauge whether the platform might work for you.

Positive Outcomes

Many users report finding exactly what they were looking for on Feeld, whether that’s long-term connections, casual experiences, or community.

Take Sam and Jordan (28 and 31), a couple who joined Feeld to explore ethical non-monogamy: “After struggling with jealousy and communication on other apps, Feeld’s couple profile feature allowed us to be transparent from the start. We’ve formed two meaningful ongoing connections over six months, and the clarity of everyone’s expectations has made the experience positive for all involved.”

For Mia (34), a bisexual woman previously disappointed by mainstream apps, Feeld offered welcome relief: “On regular dating apps, I was constantly dealing with couples who weren’t upfront about looking for a third. On Feeld, that transparency is built in. I’ve had really positive experiences with both individuals and couples because everyone states what they’re looking for clearly.”

The app has also served as a valuable community resource. Alex (26), who identifies as non-binary, shares: “Beyond dating, Feeld connected me with people who understand my identity. Through matches who became friends, I’ve found local events and support networks I wouldn’t have discovered otherwise.”

Challenges and Limitations

Not all experiences are positive, of course. Common complaints include:

• Geographic limitations: Users outside major urban areas often find limited options.
• Growing pains: The influx of new users sometimes leads to mismatched expectations.
• Technical issues: Some users report occasional app crashes or message delivery problems.
• Verification concerns: Unlike some apps, Feeld doesn’t have a robust verification system, leading to occasional fake profiles.

Carlos (33) tried Feeld in a smaller city: “The concept is great, but after three months, I’d seen every user in my area. The population just isn’t there to make it viable unless you’re in a major metropolitan area.”

Meanwhile, Lin (29) noted concerns about the changing user base: “When I first joined in 2019, most users seemed experienced with ethical non-monogamy. Now I’m matching with more people who are new to the concept and haven’t done the emotional work or research, which leads to challenging conversations.”

Your Personal Decision Guide

With all this information, how do you decide if Feeld is worth it for you? Consider these factors when making your decision:

Location Assessment

Feeld’s value varies dramatically by location. Before committing to a paid membership:

1. Create a free profile and browse for a week to assess the local user base
2. Check the frequency of new profiles appearing in your area
3. Consider your willingness to expand your distance parameters

If you’re seeing few profiles or the same ones repeatedly, the premium features may not justify the cost.

Alignment With Your Goals

Reflect honestly on what you’re seeking:

• For ethical non-monogamy: Feeld remains one of the better options, especially in urban areas.
• For kink exploration: The platform provides a more dating-focused alternative to community sites like FetLife.
• For couples: The linked profile feature makes Feeld particularly valuable for partners exploring together.
• For LGBTQ+ users: The inclusive design offers advantages over mainstream apps that retrofit inclusion features.

If your goals align with these strengths, Feeld likely offers value beyond its alternatives.

Practical Trial Approach

Consider this stepped approach to evaluating Feeld:

1. Start with the free version for 2-3 weeks
2. If you’re finding potential matches but feel limited by free features, try one month of Majestic Membership
3. Assess your success rate and decide whether to continue the subscription
4. If continuing, switch to an annual plan for better value

This methodical approach prevents both premature dismissal and unnecessary long-term investment before you’ve confirmed the app’s value for your specific situation.

Navigating Forward: Making the Most of Feeld in 2023

Whether you decide Feeld is worth it or not, these insights can help you maximize your experience if you do choose to use the platform:

• Invest in your profile: The more specific and authentic you are about your desires and boundaries, the more likely you’ll attract compatible matches
• Utilize desires tags strategically: These are powerful filtering tools that help the right people find you
• Practice patience: Alternative dating pools are smaller; quality connections may take time
• Communicate clearly: Don’t assume everyone has the same understanding of relationship terms or expectations
• Consider complementary platforms: Many successful users maintain profiles on multiple apps to maximize opportunities

The digital dating landscape continues to evolve, and Feeld’s growth reflects broader cultural shifts toward greater relationship diversity and sexual openness. While no platform is perfect, Feeld’s willingness to create space for those exploring beyond traditional relationship models represents a valuable contribution to the dating ecosystem.

As you consider whether Feeld deserves space on your phone, remember that the “worth” of any dating app is ultimately personal—dependent on your location, goals, and how you engage with the platform. The most successful users approach with clarity about their desires, patience with the process, and healthy boundaries around their time and emotional investment.

What alternative relationship structures or explorations have you been curious about but haven’t found space to discuss openly? Perhaps the greatest value of platforms like Feeld is not just in the connections they facilitate, but in the conversations they normalize.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Feeld safe in terms of privacy and discretion?

Feeld offers several privacy features that exceed industry standards. Users can hide their profiles from Facebook friends, create secure connections with pins, and control the visibility of their photos. The premium membership adds incognito browsing. That said, no dating app can guarantee complete privacy. Users concerned about discretion should avoid using identifiable photos and practice standard online safety measures like meeting in public places initially.

How does Feeld compare to mainstream apps for LGBTQ+ users?

Feeld was designed with gender and sexual diversity as core principles rather than afterthoughts. This shows in features like highly customizable gender and orientation options, the absence of forced binary choices, and a community generally familiar with LGBTQ+ identities. Many queer users report fewer instances of having to explain their identity or relationship structure compared to mainstream apps. However, like all platforms, user experiences vary by location and specific identity.

Can single people find meaningful connections on Feeld, or is it primarily for couples?

While Feeld is known for being couple-friendly, approximately 60% of users are single individuals. Many report finding meaningful connections, whether with other singles or with couples. The key difference from mainstream apps is that Feeld allows users to be explicit about interest in various relationship structures. Singles seeking monogamous relationships can specify this, as can those open to connections with couples or multiple partners. The transparency allows for clearer matching based on compatible relationship goals.